Governor Stein Honors Charlotte Leaders With North Carolina's Highest Civilian Award

Gov. Josh Stein honored a distinguished group of North Carolinians on June 17 with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, recognizing their lasting contributions to business, education, public service, philanthropy, journalism, athletics, and community leadership.

The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is among North Carolina's highest civilian honors and is traditionally presented to individuals with a proven record of extraordinary service and accomplishments benefiting the state and its communities.

"This group of exceptional North Carolinians have made our state stronger through their contributions across business, education, government, faith, journalism, and athletics," Stein said. "I am proud to honor them today for their leadership and commitment to the Charlotte community."

This year's honorees, all from Mecklenburg County, represent decades of leadership across the public and private sectors.

Among those recognized was Crandall Bowles, the former chief executive officer of Springs Industries, whose career has been marked by business leadership and extensive philanthropic work throughout North Carolina.

Also receiving the honor was Erskine Bowles, who served as White House chief of staff under President Bill Clinton before leading the University of North Carolina System as president. Bowles has long been recognized for his work in higher education, government, and public policy.

Mike Clement was honored for his leadership in corporate communications and nonprofit service. Clement founded Strait Insights after serving as director of Global Corporate Communications for Bank of America and previously chaired the board of Roof Above, a Charlotte nonprofit serving people experiencing homelessness.

Business executive Malcomb Coley also joined this year's class. Coley previously served as Charlotte managing partner at Ernst & Young and later co-founded Bright Hope Capital. His community service has included leadership roles with United Way of Central Carolinas and the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance.

Former state lawmaker Beverly Earle was recognized for her years of public service in the North Carolina General Assembly.

The governor also honored Omar Jorge, chief executive officer of Compare Foods Supermarkets and co-founder of Aurora Grocery Group. Jorge has played a prominent role in expanding Latino-owned businesses across North Carolina while supporting economic development initiatives in Charlotte.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles received the state's highest civilian honor after years of public service, including her leadership as the city's mayor.

Former Steve Smith Sr. was recognized not only for his accomplishments on the football field with the Carolina Panthers and Baltimore Ravens but also for his charitable work through the Steve Smith Family Foundation, which supports behavioral health care access.

Businessman David Tepper was honored for his philanthropy and investment in North Carolina through ownership of the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC, as well as his work as founder and president of Appaloosa Management.

Former Charlotte Mayor Richard Vinroot was also inducted, recognizing decades of civic leadership in North Carolina's largest city.

Faith leader Ricky Woods received the award for his ministry and service on the Leading on Opportunity Task Force, which focuses on expanding economic mobility in Charlotte.

Also among the honorees was Rafael Prieto Zartha, a journalist and co-founder of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. His decades-long career has focused on expanding Hispanic representation in journalism and strengthening community engagement.

The Order of the Long Leaf Pine has been presented for decades to North Carolinians whose careers demonstrate exceptional service to the state. Recipients become honorary ambassadors of North Carolina and are recognized for making lasting contributions that improve the lives of others.

This year's class reflects a broad cross-section of leadership from the Charlotte region, highlighting accomplishments in public office, education, business, nonprofit work, ministry, journalism, and professional sports.